Legislative Activity

The Combating Organized Retail Crime Act aims to combat sophisticated criminal gangs engaged in large-scale retail and supply chain theft. This bill strengthens federal law by updating money laundering and stolen property statutes, including establishing a $5,000 aggregate value threshold for certain offenses. Crucially, it mandates the creation of a specialized federal Coordination Center within Homeland Security to unify efforts across all levels of law enforcement and private industry against these transnational criminal organizations.

This resolution officially designates the week of April 19 through April 27, 2025, as "National Park Week." It recognizes the historical significance and vital mission of the National Park Service in preserving America's natural and cultural treasures. The bill encourages the public to visit, experience, and support these cherished sites during this designated week.

This resolution officially designates the week of April 14 through April 20, 2025, as "National Osteopathic Medicine Week." It recognizes the vital contributions of the nation's growing number of osteopathic physicians (DOs) who focus on whole-person healthcare. The designation celebrates the history, dedication, and ongoing training of these essential healthcare providers across the country.

This resolution formally honors the life and extensive public service of the late Honorable John Bennett Johnston, Jr., former U.S. Senator for Louisiana. It details his career, highlighting his significant tenure on key Senate committees, particularly his leadership on energy policy. The resolution recognizes his legislative achievements benefiting Louisiana, including flood control and conservation efforts. Finally, the Senate adjourns immediately in his memory as a final tribute to his service.

This joint resolution expresses Congress's disapproval of a specific rule submitted by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) concerning California's vehicle and engine pollution control standards, known as the "Omnibus" Low NOx Regulation. By disapproving the rule, Congress immediately cancels the EPA's submission, preventing it from taking legal effect. This action effectively rejects the EPA's attempt to implement those specific California standards.

This joint resolution expresses Congress's formal disapproval of a recent rule issued by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) concerning California's pollution control standards for heavy-duty vehicles and engines. By invoking the Congressional Review Act, this measure nullifies the EPA's proposed regulations regarding emission standards, warranty provisions, and zero-emission vehicle requirements. Consequently, the specific EPA rule published on April 11, 2023, will not take legal effect.

The Prescription Pricing for the People Act of 2025 directs the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) to conduct a comprehensive study of the pharmaceutical supply chain, focusing heavily on the practices of Pharmacy Benefit Managers (PBMs). This investigation will examine issues like pricing fairness, patient steering, data misuse, and formulary manipulation. The FTC must deliver a final report to Congress detailing its findings, planned enforcement actions, and legislative recommendations to increase transparency and competition in the drug market.

This Act authorizes the minting and issuance of special commemorative gold and silver coins to mark the 25th anniversary of the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks. The coins will honor the victims, first responders, and the National September 11 Memorial and Museum. All surcharges collected from the sale of these coins must be paid directly to the National September 11 Memorial and Museum to support its operations.

The BOP SCAN Mail Act mandates the Bureau of Prisons (BOP) to develop and implement a comprehensive strategy to stop synthetic drugs, like fentanyl, from entering federal facilities via mail. This strategy requires digitizing mail delivery so inmates receive digital copies within 24 hours, while physical mail is delivered later if cleared of contraband. The ultimate goal is to achieve 100% scanning capacity to enhance security and alleviate staffing burdens within the BOP.

The DETERRENT Act significantly tightens reporting requirements for colleges and universities regarding foreign gifts and contracts, mandating public disclosure databases and imposing strict new prohibitions on agreements with "foreign countries or entities of concern." It establishes severe financial penalties and potential ineligibility for federal aid for institutions that knowingly violate these transparency and compliance rules. The bill also requires institutions to implement internal policies and designate compliance officers to manage risks associated with foreign influence.

The CONNECT for Health Act of 2025 aims to significantly expand access to telehealth services under Medicare by permanently removing outdated geographic restrictions and broadening provider eligibility. The bill also enhances program integrity by dedicating new funding to oversight and establishing educational outreach for providers with unusual billing patterns. Finally, it mandates new resources, training, and public data reporting to ensure the quality and accessibility of virtual care for all beneficiaries.

This resolution officially designates March 27, 2025, as "National Women in Agriculture Day." It recognizes the vital and substantial contributions of the over 1.2 million female agricultural producers to the U.S. economy and global food supply. The measure encourages citizens to acknowledge the leadership, mentorship, and economic impact women have across the entire agricultural sector.

The Alleviating Barriers for Caregivers Act (ABC Act) mandates a comprehensive review of Medicare, Medicaid, CHIP, and Social Security programs to significantly simplify application processes, forms, and communications. This effort aims to reduce the burden on family caregivers by eliminating redundant information requests across agencies. The responsible officials must report their simplification plans and progress to Congress within two years of enactment.

The Sanctioning Russia Act of 2025 mandates sweeping economic penalties against the Russian Federation and its affiliates for actions against Ukraine. This legislation requires the President and Treasury Secretary to impose escalating sanctions on Russian officials, financial institutions, and energy sector entities. Furthermore, the Act prohibits U.S. persons from investing in Russian debt, bans the trading of Russian securities on U.S. exchanges, and imposes a massive 500% import duty on Russian goods. Sanctions can only be terminated if Russia agrees to a verifiable peace deal with Ukraine.

The Coast Guard Improvement Act of 2025 establishes the new, high-level position of Secretary of the Coast Guard, who will serve as the civilian head of the service. This Secretary will report directly to the Secretary of Homeland Security and oversee all administrative and operational affairs of the Coast Guard. The bill also mandates that the Secretary of Homeland Security submit a reorganization plan to Congress detailing the transition of responsibilities to this new office.

This resolution strongly condemns the Iranian regime's regional aggression and domestic brutality while focusing on the protection of Iranian political refugees at Ashraf-3 in Albania. It urges the U.S. government to uphold the fundamental rights of these dissidents, including former political prisoners and key witnesses to past atrocities. Furthermore, the resolution calls for opposing Iranian threats and extradition attempts against these refugees residing in Albania.

The Healthy Food Access for All Americans Act establishes a new tax credit and grant program to incentivize grocery stores, food banks, and mobile vendors to operate in designated "food deserts." This financial support aims to increase access to fresh food in underserved communities across the nation. Furthermore, the bill mandates that the Department of Agriculture update its Food Access Research Atlas annually to reflect new food retailers.

The Increasing Access to Dental Insurance Act ensures individuals can purchase standalone dental insurance plans directly through the official health insurance marketplaces. This legislation removes any requirement to also enroll in a comprehensive medical plan to secure dental coverage via the Exchange. The goal is to simplify the process for people seeking only dental benefits through the established marketplace system.

This resolution formally honors the life and distinguished public service career of the Honorable Alan K. Simpson, former U.S. Senator for Wyoming. It celebrates his extensive tenure in both state and federal government, highlighting his focus on fiscal responsibility and support for veterans. The Senate expresses its deep sorrow at his passing and directs that the day's adjournment serve as a final tribute to his memory.

The Cellphone Jamming Reform Act of 2025 limits the FCC's authority to prohibit state and federal correctional facilities from using signal jamming systems within their housing areas. This legislation permits prisons to deploy jammers specifically to block communications involving contraband devices or incarcerated individuals. Any facility choosing to use this technology must adhere to strict operational rules, including location limitations and pre-approval notification to local public safety officials and the Bureau of Prisons.